Our Lady of Tinos, Greek Orthodox pilgrimage church in Tinos, Greece.
Our Lady of Tinos is a white marble church positioned near the port, accessed by a wide staircase that leads to its entrance. The interior features silver ornaments and religious objects that reflect its importance as a pilgrimage destination.
Construction of the church began in 1823 following the discovery of an ancient icon of the Virgin Mary buried beneath the ground by a nun named Pelagia. This discovery transformed the site into a major pilgrimage destination.
The church functions as Greece's foremost shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary, where pilgrims come to pray and participate in religious observances passed down through generations.
The path to the church begins with a steep, carpet-lined route ascending from the port. Plan your visit around the major celebrations that take place on specific religious dates throughout the year.
Many pilgrims approach the shrine by crawling on their knees along the red carpet path, a practice that demonstrates their religious devotion. This tradition continues to be observed by faithful visitors today.
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